How often should I change the spark plugs on my Acura TL?
Most Acura TL models with long-life iridium or platinum plugs are typically changed around every 105,000 miles under normal driving. If your TL uses conventional copper plugs, or you regularly drive in harsh conditions (towing, lots of short trips, extreme heat or cold), you may need to replace them earlier—often around 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact interval for your year and engine.
Factory guidance and plug types
Here’s how the guidance typically breaks down by plug type and driving conditions.
- Iridium or platinum spark plugs (common in most TLs from the mid-2000s onward): replacement interval is about 105,000 miles under normal driving.
- Copper spark plugs (less common on newer TLs, usually only in older or specialized models): replacement interval is roughly 30,000–60,000 miles.
- Harsh driving conditions (frequent short trips, towing, heavy loads, extreme heat or cold): consider earlier changes and follow the owner’s manual guidance.
In practice, most TL owners will plan for a 105,000‑mile replacement if their car uses iridium/platinum plugs, with earlier service if copper plugs are present or if driving conditions are tougher.
Signs that your spark plugs may need replacing
Be alert for symptoms that suggest worn or failing plugs, which can help you decide whether it’s time for a change—even if you’re near the scheduled interval.
- Rough idle or intermittent misfires at low rpm
- Difficulty starting or longer crank times
- Noticeable drop in fuel economy or reduced acceleration
- Engine knocking or pinging under load
- Check engine light with misfire codes (P0300-range) or rough-running indicators
If you observe several of these symptoms, have the ignition system inspected and consider replacing the plugs or coils as needed.
DIY replacement: tips and steps
Replacing spark plugs on an Acura TL is doable for a capable DIYer, but it requires care to avoid cross-threading and to use the correct parts.
- Use the correct plug type and heat range as specified for your engine (most TLs use iridium/platinum plugs; copper plugs are less common on modern models).
- Do not gap iridium/platinum plugs; many come pre-gapped and should be installed as-is. If you install copper plugs, gap them to OEM specifications.
- Torque the plugs to the manufacturer’s specification. A typical range for Acura/ Honda engines is roughly 13–21 ft-lbs (about 18–28 N·m) depending on the exact model; consult your manual or a repair guide for your year.
- Because the TL uses coil-on-plug ignition, you’ll remove each coil pack to access its plug. Inspect coils for wear and replace if you detect miss, arcing, or scorching.
- Avoid using anti-seize on modern engine plugs; torque accuracy is essential and anti-seize can lead to over-torquing.
- After installation, rotate the engine or perform a careful test drive to ensure smooth operation and verify there are no stored codes.
If you’re not comfortable performing the job, or if you’re working near fuel lines or coil packs, a professional shop can complete the replacement quickly and correctly.
Summary
For most Acura TL owners, plan to replace spark plugs around 105,000 miles if your car uses long-life iridium or platinum plugs. Copper plugs, when present, typically require more frequent changes (30,000–60,000 miles). Watch for signs of wear such as rough idling, hard starting, or reduced fuel economy, and address them promptly. Whether you DIY or hire a pro, use the correct plug type, follow torque specs, and consider coil condition as part of the replacement process. Regular maintenance—paired with the vehicle’s manual guidance—helps keep your TL running smoothly.
